Key West, Florida isn’t just famous for stunning sunsets—it’s also a top destination for world-class fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, the waters surrounding our island offer a wide variety of fish species all year round.
At Wares The Fish, we take pride in offering a Key West fishing charter experience that’s fun, educational, and rewarding. From shallow reef zones to the deep blue offshore waters, here are 10 common fish you might catch on your next fishing trip in Key West.
1. Yellowtail Snapper
A favorite among both seasoned and beginner anglers, the yellowtail snapper is well-known for its bright colors and tasty, mild meat. These fish usually swim in large schools around coral reefs, making them ideal for a relaxing day of inshore fishing Key West.
- Best location: Reefs and wrecks
- Best bait: Squid, shrimp, or cut bait
🎣 Planning to explore the reef? Book your guided trip with us at Wares The Fish!
2. Mahi-Mahi
With its electric green and yellow colors, the mahi-mahi is easy to spot and exciting to reel in. These fast, surface-dwelling fish are a popular target on offshore fishing Key West trips and provide a real thrill during the catch.
- Best location: Offshore, around floating debris
- Best bait: Trolled lures or live ballyhoo
🌊 Want to chase mahi-mahi on the open ocean? Our Key West fishing charter makes it easy to get offshore fast.
3. Shark
Key West waters are home to several shark species like nurse, blacktip, lemon, and bull sharks. While many anglers choose catch-and-release, shark fishing offers a powerful, heart-pounding experience.
- Best location: Nearshore flats, wrecks
- Best bait: Cut bait or chum
4. Grouper
Black and red grouper are prized for their strength and delicious fillets. These bottom-dwellers are commonly caught in colder months and are a highlight of many Key West fishing charter outings.
- Best location: Deep reefs and ledges
- Best bait: Live pinfish or cut bait
🐟 Grouper season is calling—will you answer? Let’s get your line in the water. Book your charter now.
5. Tuna
Blackfin and skipjack tuna roam the offshore waters of Key West, especially during the spring and fall. Known for their speed and strength, tuna make an unforgettable catch—and a fantastic meal.
- Best location: Offshore, deep waters
- Best bait: Live bait or trolling bait
6. Tarpon
The iconic “Silver King” of Key West, tarpon are known for their size, strength, and impressive aerial displays. They’re a bucket-list catch for many anglers and often found in shallower waters.
- Best location: Flats, channels, bridges
- Best bait: Mullet, crabs, or shrimp
🎯 Want a real fight? Tarpon season is one of the best times to book your fishing charter Key West adventure.
7. Barracuda
Sleek and fast, barracuda are aggressive predators with sharp teeth and serious speed. You’ll find them darting through the flats or stalking the reefs—perfect for sight-casting action.
- Best location: Shallow flats, reefs
- Best bait: Live bait or topwater plugs
8. Mangrove Snapper
Common along mangroves and docks, the mangrove snapper is fun to catch and excellent on light tackle. It’s a great species for inshore fishing Key West, especially for families and kids.
- Best location: Mangroves, shallow reefs
- Best bait: Shrimp, squid, or cut bait
🛥️ Looking for family-friendly fishing? We’ve got trips for every skill level. Check availability today.
9. Permit
Permit are cautious but powerful fighters. Catching one on the flats requires skill and patience, which is why many anglers consider it one of the top sport fish in Key West.
- Best location: Shallow flats, wrecks
- Best bait: Live crabs or shrimp
10. Wahoo
One of the fastest fish in the ocean, wahoo are the stars of high-speed trolling trips. They’re prized not only for their fight but also for their firm, flavorful meat.
- Best location: Deep offshore waters
- Best bait: Fast-trolled lures
🚤 Chasing wahoo offshore? Let us guide you to the hot spots. Reserve your seat on board.
Key Takeaways
Fishing in Key West offers something for everyone—from colorful snappers in the reefs to lightning-fast wahoo offshore. At Wares The Fish, we know these waters, and we’ll help you discover the right species, the right gear, and the perfect spot to cast your line.
You don’t need to be a pro. Whether you’re booking a half-day outing or a full-day fishing charter in Key West, we’re here to help you catch fish and make memories.
🐠 Ready to go fishing Key West style? Start your adventure today by booking your charter with Wares The Fish.
Contact Wares The Fish
We’re located at Hurricane Hole, 5130 U.S. 1 Key West, FL 33040-5417. Have questions? Call us at (305) 587-8810 or email gofishwithal@gmail.com.
You can also go straight to our booking page and lock in your spot today.
